Differential Diagnosis for Genital Wart Lookalikes
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Condyloma lata (secondary syphilis): This condition can present with lesions that resemble genital warts, making it a key consideration in the differential diagnosis. The lesions in condyloma lata are often flat, broad, and moist, distinguishing them from the typically raised and verrucous appearance of genital warts.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Molluscum contagiosum: This viral infection causes small, pearly, or flesh-colored lesions that can be mistaken for genital warts. The lesions are usually dome-shaped and have a central depression.
- Seborrheic keratoses: These benign growths can appear in the genital area and may resemble genital warts, especially if they become irritated or inflamed.
- Fordyce spots: These small, yellowish or white bumps on the genitals are caused by ectopic sebaceous glands and can be mistaken for genital warts.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Squamous cell carcinoma: Although rare, this type of skin cancer can present with lesions that resemble genital warts. It is crucial to biopsy any suspicious or atypical lesions to rule out malignancy.
- Basal cell carcinoma: Another type of skin cancer that can occur in the genital area, basal cell carcinoma may present with lesions that could be mistaken for genital warts.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Lichen planus: This chronic inflammatory condition can cause lesions in the genital area that may resemble genital warts, although they are typically flat and purplish in color.
- Psoriasis: Genital psoriasis can cause red, scaly plaques that may be mistaken for genital warts, especially if the lesions become secondarily infected.
- Vestibular papillomatosis: This benign condition causes small, finger-like projections on the vulvar vestibule and can be mistaken for genital warts.